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Making a difference

We've come a long way from where “it used to be,” when the warehousing of people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities was painfully routine.

The Province of Ontario closed institutional facilities and provided opportunities for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to enjoy living in their communities.

All institutions for people with developmental disabilities in Ontario were closed as of 2009.

Every day in Ontario, thousands of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) assist people with a developmental disability to live more inclusive and dignified lives. The quality of these services and supports have a direct impact on the quality of life for the people supported.

For many years, there has been a movement to recognize and professionalize DSPs. They require ongoing education, flexibility, and resilience to continue to best support people with disabilities to grow to be part of their communities.

Developmental support professionals offer a wide range of supportive services on a day-to-day basis so that people with developmental disabilities can live, work, and participate in their communities.

Services include health needs, personal care, finances, employment, transportation, recreation, support with developing meaningful relationships, and other home management-related supports and services.

That is why Community Living Fort Frances and District is recognizing all the hard-working staff who “make a difference every day.”